A Difficult Disclosure: The dilemmas faced by families affected by imprisonment regarding what information to share

Being or having a parent in prison typically brings about negative consequences for both the imprisoned parent and their children, including a sense of loss, fear, shame, anger, insecurity and embarrassment (Almund and Myers 2003; Lockwood 2013). With restricted choices and parenting opportunities, imprisoned parents and their families have to negotiate the boundaries between the inside and outside world when faced with the decision of what and how much to tell their children about their situation (Almund and Myers 2003). This paper will draw on three different qualitative studies conducted in relation to families affected by imprisonment to explore the different approaches that families in this situation take in relation to how they deal with the disclosure of information. Quotes from parents and children will illustrate the complexities and stresses arising from this and how they impact on family members.